Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, United Nations Affairs, Volume III

310.2/6–2054: Telegram

The Chargé in Japan (Parsons) to the Department of State¹

confidential

Tokyo, June 20, 1954—9 a.m.
[Received—3:12 a.m.]

3166. 1. Embassy officer confidentially informed by Foreign Office official responsible for UN affair that Foreign Minister now personally studying question associate membership UN. Decision expected soon. Reconsideration associate membership initiated at request USUN as result Wadsworth–Sawada conversation last month.

2. Foreign Office official reported principal objections to associate membership:

(1) Loss of prestige in accepting secondary position

(2) Diet and public desire for full membership and unwillingness to settle for less

(3) Reduced bargaining position vis-à-vis US for support of full membership

(4) Expectation Japanese delegation required to make commitments on controversial issues although not in position vote and exercise influence. Japanese doubtful charter permits associate membership and unwilling to apply unless favorable GA decision assured. Japanese also fear isolation as only associate member. Italian unwillingness to seek this status has been conveyed to Foreign Office.

3. Foreign Office official reported above disadvantages are balanced by recognized value on associate membership in providing needed experience and opportunities for more active role in Far East.

Parsons

1. Passed by Department of State to USUN, 7:30 a.m., June 20.